Bug Out Build on Budget

Hello Truckers...

I'm new to the overland concept.

Goal: Bug Out Truck for 4 passengers for long term, off grid survival if necessary.

4 wheel drive
Sleeping
Cooking
Fresh water
Refrigeration
Fishing
Hunting
Farming

Overall...likely coming up with 10k available budget to set up truck and all equipment.

Where to source, where to skimp, where to not skimp.

I'd appreciate everyone's suggestions on choices and why.

Thank You.

BugOutBuild - California

 

Hopefully you already have the truck because a 4wd Tacoma in decent shape in CA is gonna take most of not more than your budget.

How you gonna get gas to stay off grid for months?

 

Hello @hoarder23

Thanks for the reply.

We are looking at 150k mileage trucks, Gen 1 to keep cost down on truck purchase.

As far as gas for staying off grid. We do not plan on commuting to and from our jobs nor site seeing. This is more for, get away, stay away, live away long term in case necessary. We will be getting gas cans to enable us to get out once we decide it's necessary.

Then, if it's not necessary to get away permanently, or for long term, we'll have a good rig for enjoying the great out doors and likely buy a newer truck down the road.

 

I would prioritize reliability and durability. If you have to bug out, you want a capable 4x4 but you won't be doing the rubicon trail so make sure you have some good tires and basic off roading gear and then focus on what you need to survive - water, food, warmth, etc.

 

@rocky_mountain_dave

Thanks for the reply.

I agree. I used to 4wheel in a 97 Jeep TJ that I built more for weekend fun outfitted with complete suspension from Rubicon Express back in the day.

This time I'm looking at Toyota for their reliability. Most likely if the truck needs tires, BFG All Terrain's never let me down before.

 

Welcome to TW

 

Thanks @Black DOG Lila I appreciate it.

 

May I ask your age?

 

Not sure the purpose.. but I'm 51

 

One more thought. Unless you have a compelling need for a truck bed, I would look at 4runners. Same capability but cheaper, so more budget available for other things.

 

I was thinking a truck for the ability to haul things necessary for longer term sustainability.

Your thoughts?

 

For bug out it's a big block 1975 Suburban that's been de-smogged so it can run on half gasoline, half piss from the bottom of a sandy 55 gallon drum.

 

LMAO... Gotta love old rigs running Chevy V8.. unfortunately I'm looking to get there and not spending time wrenching on the road. I've had plenty of old rigs. I'll be selling my 69 Bug to get further faster in this process.

 

I'm sure you've given this way more thought than I have ... Once you've arrived at your long term camp, if the truck bed helps with survival activities, it may be worth it.

 

Starting with a particular vehicle feels like working the problem with the wrong end. I would define what it is you need for each of those activities, and then figure out what vehicle to haul it. With that many activities, you may need a trailer, which would skew your vehicle toward a fullsize.

 

Welcome to TW...Great idea and good luck with the budget and don’t forget plenty of guns and ammo!!

 

Ready & Stocked Up In That Aspect.
The Bug Out Build was second in planning.

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Welcome!